The National Academy of Sciences reported that fluoride in drinking water can cause severe damage to the teeth and bones. Read more about Fluoride and Osteosarcoma.

Sources of fluoride

The limited benefit of fluoride exposure has been found only in connection with topical exposure to pharmaceutical-grade sodium fluoride, NOT systemic exposure through ingestion. Several studies have shown that fluoride provides little to no dental protection, particularly with systemic use. Furthermore, evidence indicates that fluoride exposure can only delay and not prevent tooth caries. Fluoride exposure can, however, increase the risk of dental fluorosis, a medical and cosmetic problem, and other more serious health hazards. (See the dangers of fluoride)

The following are common sources of fluoride:

Fluoridated drinking water While all of the sources mentioned below can contribute to fluoride exposure, the greatest exposure to fluoride in children arises in the form of fluoridated water. (please see section on fluoride in water for more information)

Numerous medical professionals have noted that children can ingest greater amounts of fluoride from dental products alone than is recommended by health experts.

Processed cereals and other foods The act of processing foods can increase the concentrations of fluoride found in these products.

Mechanically de-boned chicken: a 1999 Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry study found that the fluoride in mechanically separated chicken contributes to the risk of dental fluorosis in children under the age of eight.

Infant formula bear in mind the dangers of fluoride poisoning are particularly high in young developing children